Pakistan Declares Health Emergency in Two Major Cities Due to Toxic Smog
Background
Pakistan’s most populous province, Punjab, has declared a health emergency in two major cities, Lahore and Multan, due to the severe toxic smog that has engulfed the region. The German news agency dpa reported that the province has ordered a three-day lockdown per week to combat the crisis.
Health Measures
Hospitals in the affected cities have been put on high alert, with clinics extending their opening hours and medics ordered to do extra shifts. Regional Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb stated that the two cities, with a collective population of over 18 million, are the worst hit by the toxic smog that started earlier in the month.
Lockdown Measures
The cities will be under a complete lockdown every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, with no outdoor activities allowed except for medical emergencies. This move is part of several measures introduced by the province to reduce emissions, including a ban on motorised three-wheel rickshaws, barbecues, restaurants, brick kilns, and vehicles with faulty engines.
Global Impact
Lahore, with a population of over 13 million, has been ranked as the world’s most polluted city for most of this month, with air quality classified as hazardous. Other South Asian cities, including New Delhi and Dhaka, have also faced similar problems.
New Delhi’s Response
In response to the crisis, all primary school pupils in New Delhi have been switched to distance learning, and almost all construction work in and around the city has been banned. Road traffic has also been restricted.
UN Warning
Last week, the United Nations warned that more than 11 million children in Punjab might be at risk of lung conditions due to the toxic air. A Pakistani minister also expressed concern that there could be more than 250,000 deaths associated with the toxic air.
Medical Response
Doctors in Lahore report treating thousands of patients with respiratory complications every day.
Conclusion
The toxic smog crisis in Pakistan’s Punjab province highlights the urgent need for effective measures to reduce air pollution. The provincial government’s decision to declare a health emergency and implement lockdown measures is a step in the right direction. However, more needs to be done to address the root causes of the problem and protect the health and well-being of citizens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the cause of the toxic smog in Pakistan’s Punjab province?
A: The cause of the toxic smog is a combination of factors, including industrial emissions, vehicle pollution, and agricultural burning.
Q: How many people are affected by the toxic smog?
A: The toxic smog has affected millions of people in Punjab province, with Lahore being the worst hit.
Q: What measures have been taken to combat the crisis?
A: The provincial government has implemented a three-day lockdown per week, banned motorised three-wheel rickshaws, barbecues, restaurants, brick kilns, and vehicles with faulty engines, and extended clinic hours.
Q: What is the impact on healthcare?
A: The toxic smog has put a significant strain on healthcare services, with doctors reporting treating thousands of patients with respiratory complications every day.